Museum & National Heritage Listed Qantas Hangar

The Museum

Qantas Founders Museum, located in the remote Outback town of Longreach, Queensland, Australia, is a testament to the enduring legacy of one of the world’s most iconic airlines. Established in 1996, this museum has become a shrine to the history of Qantas, a company that has played a pivotal role in shaping Australian aviation and the global airline industry.

The story of Qantas Founders Museum begins with the establishment of Qantas itself. On November 16, 1920, Qantas (Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Services Limited) was founded in Winton, a neighboring town. The airline’s early days were marked by pioneering feats in aviation, including the first scheduled international flights from Australia in 1935.

Today, Qantas Founders Museum is a vital educational and cultural institution, preserving the rich heritage of Qantas and celebrating the remarkable achievements of Australian aviation. It has become a mustvisit destination for aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone interested in the fascinating tale of Qantas’ rise from a small outback airline to a global aviation giant. The museum’s commitment to keeping this incredible history alive ensures that future generations will continue to be inspired by the legacy of Qantas.

The museum is located in the heart of Longreach, which has a special connection to the airline. It was in Longreach, on November 2, 1922, that Qantas moved its headquarters, and the town soon became the base for Qantas’ early operations.

The museum’s main attraction is the Boeing 747-238, which was donated by Qantas in 2002. This aircraft, named “City of Bunbury,” is a fully interactive exhibit where visitors can explore the cockpit, sit in the captain’s seat, and even learn about the inner workings of a jumbo jet.

The museum also features an impressive collection of artifacts, including historic aircraft, engines, uniforms, and memorabilia, all of which highlight the evolution of Qantas from its inception to the present day. See full Museum collection here

National Heritage Listed Qantas Hangar

National Heritage Listed Qantas Hangar in Longreach holds a significant place in aviation history. Erected in 1922, this enduring structure witnessed the infancy of Qantas Airways.

As the birthplace of Australia’s national airline, the hangar saw the launch of pioneering flights that connected the vast outback to the world. Its walls resonate with the echoes of historic moments, from early biplanes to the iconic Constellations. This sacred space encapsulates the spirit of innovation, courage, and determination that defined Qantas. Preserved as a heritage site, the hangar stands as a living monument, inviting visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in the remarkable journey of Australia’s aviation pioneer.